BAKUCHIOL – NATURE’S SAFER VERSION OF RETINOL

1. Retinol has long been considered the gold standard ingredient in anti-aging skincare, but people are increasingly moving away from it and looking for natural alternatives to retinol that are safer and without myriads of side effects.

This comes as no surprise as the natural and organic beauty market is growing fast, and, in response, manufacturers are constantly researching natural alternatives to synthetic, high-performance ingredients. Right now, retinol alternatives that target fine lines and wrinkles, among other skin concerns, are trending and cosmetics brands and consumers are seeking options that cause less irritation than synthetic retinoids.

What is retinol?

Retinol is one of the many forms of vitamin A, a group of oil-soluble compounds that are essential for various biological functions in our bodies. These are called retinoids and can be obtained orally or trans dermally. Retinol has many benefits, but it is mostly known for its ability to mitigate visible signs of issues such as fine lines and wrinkles.

How does retinol work?

Retinol and other retinoids need to be converted into retinoic acid to function properly.

Retinoic acid activates retinoic acid receptors in the skin cells, which regulate gene expression. Think of gene expression as special instructions about what your cells need to produce. In this case, retinoic acid activates certain genes that lead to several beneficial effects on the skin, like increasing collagen production and preventing collagen degradation.

The retinoic acid action helps reduce the visible signs of wrinkles, acne and hyperpigmentation. It also increases cell renewal, improving skin texture and tone, and boosts the skin’s firmness and elasticity. However, to achieve similar results to retinoic acid, retinol needs to be used at higher concentrations, which in turn can lead to skin irritation, redness, and dryness.

What’s the problem with retinol?

Retinol is an animal derived vitamin A. These days however, most retinol products in the market are synthetic. Retinol causes photosensitivity, making your skin more susceptible to sun damage and sunburn. Retinol may also cause other skin reactions such as redness, burning sensations, peeling, scaling, and itching. Additionally, it is very sensitive to light, heat, and air. It can degrade easily, leading to issues of formulation stability. It is also rendered inactive when exposed to sunlight. Retinol is not recommended for use by people who are pregnant or breastfeeding, due to the potential risks it poses to fetal development and infants. 

Fortunately, there is an alternative. 

Bakuchiol (pronounced ‘back-oo-chiol’ after the Sanskrit name for the babchi plant) is a clinically proven plant-based active ingredient that visibly fights the signs of aging without the sensitizing or irritating effects of traditional retinol. OM Botanical Bakuchiol face serum uses this plant-based Vitamin A-rich compound derived from Psoralea corylifolia. Bakuchiol, also deemed "nature's retinol" has been safely used in Ayurveda for thousands of years.

While bakuchiol and retinol have very different chemical profiles, both work similarly on the skin, as they have similar gene expression profiles and stimulate cell turnover. Bakuchiol is a powerful antioxidant that stimulates collagen production, which in turn helps to reduce wrinkles and hyperpigmentation and increase the skin’s elasticity. It presents similar effects to retinol with less skin irritation. You can use bakuchiol daily, morning and night, as it’s not degraded by sunlight and doesn’t cause sun sensitivity.

Here’s a look at two important scientifically backed benefits of OM Botanical Bakuchiol Face Serum.

1. Alternative Solution for Sensitive Skin

There’s a reason bakuchiol is touted as nature's safer version of retinol. It has soothing, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties that help to comfort skin and minimize issues associated with sensitivity and reactivity. It can also be used on sensitive skin types with present eczema/atopic dermatitis, rosacea, and cosmetic intolerance syndrome.

2. Slows Photo-aging Process 

According to research, bakuchiol has the potential to stop photo-aging before it starts when applied topically. Clinically, bakuchiol is shown to improve signs of the photo-aging process, which includes fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and hyperpigmentation, to a degree comparable to retinol, even after UV exposure. Plus, it works by increasing cell turnover (just like retinol), but doesn't have the same sensitizing effects that retinol does including flaking and peeling. In turn, it stimulates collagen production and improves skin laxity and bounce.

Real Results: Testimonials and Experiences

Hear from individuals who have switched to bakuchiol and experienced transformative skin results. Their stories provide insights into the efficacy of this ingredient and its impact on various skin concerns.

Jane, a loyal user of retinol for years, shares her journey of transitioning to bakuchiol. "Initially skeptical about its potency," she recounts, "I was amazed at the improvements in skin texture and the reduction in fine lines without the dryness I used to endure." Her positive feedback echoes the sentiments of many who've embraced this botanical gem, applauding the comfort and [visible changes][4] that bakuchiol delivers.

Switching to bakuchiol serum from retinol might just be what your skincare routine needs. It stands out because it's gentler on the skin but doesn't compromise on effectiveness. Especially if you have sensitive skin or are pregnant and looking for safe skincare options, bakuchiol offers a natural alternative without the harsh side effects associated with retinol, like redness or irritation or sun sensitivity. Remember, incorporating any new product into your skincare routine should be done gradually. Give bakuchiol a try if you're aiming for glowing, youthful skin, with the added bonus of using a product that's kinder to you and the environment.

As consumers are becoming more aware of the cosmetic ingredients in their products, demand for high-performance natural ingredients is growing. So as it turns out, once again, OM Botanical, has harnessed the power of nature to formulate better solutions to various skin afflictions.